A number of returning names have also opted for larger stands to boost their brand presence for 2018, including Meiko. Peter Nimmo, the company’s regional sales director, said the firm was pleased with how this year’s event turned out.

“The footfall [was] fantastic with lots of good leads. On the morning of the first day alone, the number of contacts I spoke to would have taken two to three months to contact,” he commented.

Regale Microwave Ovens is also backing Commercial Kitchen after a solid performance this year. “We achieved the best results of any trade show that we have ever attended,” he said.

“The numbers really do speak for themselves: over 40% of our visitors in 2017 were top-level buyers, including owners, CEOs and MDs. 35% carried purchasing power for a multi-site, chain or group operator. Around one in four boasted an annual spend over £1m. These are exactly who our exhibitors want to meet and the high demand for our 2018 show certainly reflects this.

“It’s been a busy few months for the Commercial Kitchen team already, with lots of interest from exciting new suppliers looking to reach this important market. We look forward to announcing more details soon.”

Diversified UK is expecting to welcome over 2,000 attendees for 2018. Among them will be senior equipment buyers from independent, group and multi-site restaurants, pubs and bars, hotels, food-to-go outlets, universities, schools, hospitals, care homes, local authorities, contract caterers, retailers, attractions, equipment distributors and foodservice consultants.